Aberfeldy Bolgheri 18 Years | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Aberfeldy Distillery, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Initially matured in ex-bourbon casks, mostly refill, followed by finishing in Italian red wine casks from the Bolgheri region.
Age Statement: 18 years.
Color and Clarity: The whisky is referred to as the "golden dram," not specifically for its color but due to historical gold findings in the area. The actual color of the whisky is not described.
Bottle Design: The label features golden accents and letters, emphasizing the "golden" theme associated with Aberfeldy.

Balance of Flavors: Described as very balanced, with a fresh sweetness and wine notes. Vanilla and caramel are equally present, creating a nicely mixed flavor profile.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky has a lighter, sweeter profile compared to a 15-year-old variant, with notable cherry and vanilla notes, and a creamy texture. The finish has a wine overtone.
Comparison: It is lighter and sweeter than other variants, with less spice and a more elegant, complex taste.

Anecdotes: The "golden dram" nickname is derived from historical gold findings in the creek from which the distillery sources its water. The gold is long gone, but the name persists.
Special Editions: The Aberfeldy Bolgheri is part of a series of special editions that experiment with different cask finishes, in this case, using casks from the first vineyard to introduce Super Tuscan wines.

Bolgheri Connection: The whisky is finished in casks from the Bolgheri region in Tuscany, Italy, known for its Super Tuscan wines. This adds a unique Italian wine influence to the Scotch whisky.
Super Tuscan Wines: The finishing process in Super Tuscan wine casks from Bolgheri adds a layer of cultural and geographical significance, blending Scottish whisky craftsmanship with Italian winemaking traditions.

"It's very pleasant... a very well-balanced whisky with a little bit of a wine overtone in the end." - Host
"18 years for 100. It's also a good price." - Host on the value proposition of the whisky.

Aberfeldy 18 Years Bolgheri is a single malt Scotch whisky finished in Italian red wine casks from Bolgheri, known for Super Tuscan wines.
It features a balanced flavor profile with notes of cherry, vanilla, and a creamy texture, with a wine overtone finish.
The whisky is part of Aberfeldy's "golden dram" series, a nod to historical gold findings in the area.
It offers a unique blend of Scottish whisky craftsmanship and Italian winemaking traditions.
Hosts commend its balance, complexity, and value for an 18-year-old whisky.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring the influence of wine cask finishing on Scotch whisky will find this edition intriguing.
For Collectors: Limited edition nature and the unique story behind the "golden dram" make it a collectible item.
For Beginners: Its balanced and not overly complex profile makes it accessible for those new to whisky tasting, especially at its price point.